As wildfires continue in northern Strathcona County, the local fire advisory remains in effect.

While no full fire ban has been instituted, the fire advisory restricts burning to covered recreational fire pits, pots, bowls or chimneys, as well as approved pits within recognized campgrounds and parks.

Propane and natural gas fires are still allowed, as well, while no open burning is currently allowed in the area, including burn barrels.

Fire and fireworks permits are suspended until the advisory is lifted.

“Failure to comply with the fire advisory, burn permit conditions and the fire bylaw may result in a $1,000 fine, as well as significant charges for the cost of responses,” Strathcona County noted in a release.

To date, more than 600 hectares of rural land has been destroyed by a wildfire in northern Strathcona County since last Saturday, in the area of Township Road 564 and Range Road 211.

Deputy fire chief Bob Scott noted that overnight rain on Wednesday may not be enough to change the current situation.

“Even with the (rain) coming in tomorrow, don’t be fooled by it,” he said. “Just because it’s cooler, more humid and rainier, that doesn’t necessarily mean conditions have changed enough for us to take the fire advisory off.”

An app for fire bans

A new fire ban app for all of Alberta was announced on Tuesday.

Forestry and Agriculture Minister Oneil Carlier announced the launch of the new Android and Apple feature in anticipation of the May long weekend.

“It is vital that Albertans be aware of any bans or restrictions throughout the province if they intend to enjoy our beautiful back-country,” Carlier said.

Users can also find the fire restrictions in their browser by visiting AlbertaFireBans.ca.

As of Tuesday, there were 88 fire bans and advisories — including Strathcona County’s — in effect across the province.

To date, there have been 274 wildfires in the province’s Forest Protection Area since March 1. A news release on the issue stated that 99 per cent of those were caused by humans.

Albertans can also check for wildfires using a previously-released Alberta Wildfire app. To report a wildfire, call 310-FIRE (3473).